Sept. 11, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  David Liebler, Director of Public Affairs & Member Services, 916-327-7500, ext 530

The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) announced today the recipients of its 2018 Challenge Awards that spotlight the most innovative programs developed and implemented by California Counties.

A special award – the California Counties Innovation Award – is being presented to Santa Barbara and Yuba Counties for programs the judging panel deemed were the most innovative and effective out of the 267 entries received this year.

Beyond the Innovation Award, CSAC is honoring 15 programs from 11 counties with Challenge Awards, and another 36 programs from 18 counties with Merit Awards.

“The CSAC Challenge Awards honor the innovative and creative spirit of California Counties,” said CSAC Executive Director Graham Knaus. “As our counties continue to face new challenges, they are constantly developing solutions to best meet the needs of their residents. The programs receiving these awards exemplify the outstanding work being done throughout California’s 58 counties.”

The top overall recipients this year are: San Diego County, six awards; Placer and San Bernardino Counties, five awards apiece; and Orange County, four awards.  

The California Counties Innovation Award is being presented to Santa Barbara County for an effective program staff created after the January 2018 devastating debris flow. An interactive GIS map assists property owners and county staff by consolidate parcel information in one easily accessible location. Yuba County is being honored for its “14Forward” temporary housing program that provides vital services for homeless residents who want to become self-sufficient. This collaborative program that has turned Tuff Sheds into temporary homes with centralized services on-site is now being replicated in other counties.

For a complete list of award recipients, click here.